Federal Gulch Campground And Trailhead
01 reviewFederal Gulch Campground, East Fork of the Wood River, Sawtooth National Forest
Federal Gulch Campground And Trailhead
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
No fees are required for camping at Federal Gulch Campground, as it is a non-fee campground.
About this campground
Tucked away in the pristine wilderness of the East Fork Wood River valley, Federal Gulch Campground offers adventurers a true escape from the crowds. This hidden gem operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no fees, making it perfect for spontaneous getaways. The campground serves as your gateway to the Federal Gulch Trail No. 169, which winds its way into the secluded Little Wood River country. As one satisfied camper noted, this is a "great little campground off the beaten path" where tranquility reigns supreme.
Federal Gulch Campground provides primitive camping options with three campsites. It is non-reservation and non-fee.
Historical SignificanceHistory whispers through the pines here, as Federal Gulch sits in the shadow of Triumph, a once-bustling mining town that helped shape Idaho's frontier legacy. The weathered remnants and stories of prospectors who once scoured these hills for precious metals add a layer of intrigue to your camping experience, connecting modern adventurers to the bold spirits who first explored these rugged mountains.
Weather and SeasonsPlan your visit between May and October when mountain snows recede and wildflowers begin their colorful display. The campground officially operates from June through September, offering visitors the best of Idaho's mountain summer. Days can be delightfully crisp, with temperatures climbing from cool 25°F mornings to comfortable 79°F afternoons. The relatively dry climate means more blue-sky days for your outdoor adventures, though wise campers always pack layers for those characteristic mountain temperature swings.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to the gentle murmur of the East Fork Wood River as it dances over smooth stones just steps from your tent. Towering conifers create a natural cathedral overhead, while glimpses of alpine meadows beckon through the trees. The campground thoughtfully accommodates equestrian adventurers with sturdy hitching rails, making it an ideal basecamp for those exploring the backcountry on horseback. The surrounding forest transitions from dense woodland to open alpine terrain, offering diverse ecosystems to discover.
Geological RegionNestled within the majestic Sawtooth National Forest, Federal Gulch occupies a special corner of the East Fork Wood River drainage. This geological wonderland showcases the dramatic interplay between ancient volcanic activity and glacial carving that shaped these mountains. The terrain transitions seamlessly from forested valleys to alpine heights, providing access to the remote and wild Little Wood River country—a landscape that remains much as it was when the first miners arrived over a century ago.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned for this campground.
Sites SizeThe campground consists of three campsites. Exact dimensions are not provided.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels between campsites are not specified in the source.
Total Campsites3 campsites
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Camping limit of 16 days.
Groups
There are no specific group sites mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of three campsites, each equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from May through October. Operational hours are June to September.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll three campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Cancellation PolicyNot applicable as reservations are not required.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Camping at Federal Gulch offers opportunities for hiking, day hikes, backpacking, horseback riding, fishing, picnicking, and winter sports such as snowmobiling.
Hiking
Hiking is a key activity, with access to Federal Gulch Trail No. 169, which connects to the remote and less-traveled Little Wood River country.Fishing
Fishing in the river or stream is an activity available to campers. Specific fish types and fishing conditions are not described.Winter Activities
Winter sports like snowmobiling are indicated as available, though further details are not provided.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Each campsite includes a fire ring. Standard fire safety practices should be followed.
Hazards
General hazardsSeasonal weather changes, such as snow outside of peak months, may impact accessibility. No potable water is provided, so preparation is essential.
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 53%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are in Ketchum (12 miles away) and include hospitals, ranger stations, and police services.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingNo information about trash or recycling facilities is provided.
Proximity to water featuresLocated on the East Fork of the Wood River.
Campground Map
Federal Gulch Campground, East Fork of the Wood River, Sawtooth National Forest
Driving directionsFrom Ketchum, go south on ID 75 approximately 6 miles to the East Fork Big Wood River/Greenhorn Gulch traffic light, then go east (left) on Forest Road #118 approximately 12 miles, through the old mining town of Triumph, along the East Fork of the Wood River, to reach Federal Gulch Campground.
Access roads are paved up to Forest Road #118, which is a gravel road. Roads are generally accessible from May to October. Seasonal closures due to snow are possible outside this period.Nearby places
Ketchum (12 miles / approximately 25 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, fuel, and camping supplies can be found in Ketchum, approximately 12 miles away.
Camper Reviews
0.0
1 reviews
Federal Gulch Campground And Trailhead has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Federal Gulch Campground is described as a "great little campground" that is "off the beaten path."
Review Summaries
Based on 1 reviews
What Campers Love
The campground's remote location and minimalistic amenities were appreciated, with users enjoying its seclusion.
Based on 1 reviewsCommon Concerns
No complaints were noted in the user reviews.
Based on 1 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers should bring their own water as potable water is unavailable.
Based on 1 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is generally accessible from May through October, with operational hours specified as June to September. Snowmobiling indicates winter use as well.
Based on 1 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Great little campground ⛺ off the beaten path 🏕," as per a user review by David Wieand.
Based on 1 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
No specific feedback about individual campsites is available.
Based on 1 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility experiences.
Based on 1 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews or policies related to pets are mentioned.
Based on 1 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025